Beyond the majestic, centuries-old historic buildings, Budapest’s most important monuments, there is another side to the Hungarian capital, where beauty is hidden in the little things. 

This is the kind of thing you find in a cosmopolitan, ever-growing city, where the traditions of its roots merge with the modernity of a Europe that sees Budapest as a growing and booming city.

It is no longer just known as the home of the country’s best spas or as having some of Hungary’s most prestigious museums, but has surprises and charms around every corner.

Best hidden cafés in Budapest

One of these surprises are the local coffee shops, which beyond the most demanded and touristy products, have a special atmosphere. 

These cafés are designed for lovers of good coffee, for those who are looking for something different, a refuge where they can enjoy the passing of time.

Coffee Stand

Fény utca

Near Millenáris Park, on the Buda side, we found the first of our favourite hidden cafés. It has everything a coffee shop like this could possibly need. 

It’s small, cosy and you can buy any of the coffees you’ve tasted minutes before from the coffee machine on the shelves. They have coffees from all over the world and can be proud to say that they serve some of the best coffees in the city.  

Café Arioso 

9 Király Street

Has anyone mentioned charming places? Café Arioso combines being a flower shop, a coffee shop, a brunch place and an interior design shop like no other. You can imagine the spectacular décor. 

The charming décor and friendly staff make this café a great choice for a morning coffee or a full mid-morning brunch. 

Although they don’t appear on the menu, take a look at the cakes in the display case and don’t forget to order some. You’re sure to hit the spot. And if you get the chance, sit outside and enjoy a little corner of tranquillity in the middle of a busy Jewish quarter.

HAB Café

Andrássy út, 1062 

It may seem impossible to use the expressions ‘hidden corners’ and ‘Andrássy út’ in the same sentence, but we have found a charming place that you wouldn’t imagine exists. 

The HAB, the Hungarian Art and Business, has a café where you can enjoy a high quality coffee while admiring the works of art around you. Everything in this place is a work of art in itself. 

Industrial in style but with an exceptional design where the multicoloured staircase stands out. The friendliness of the staff is another reason to visit this café while strolling along Budapest’s most important avenue.

Caphe by Hai Nam

Bartók Béla út 35

In the southern part of the city centre hides the best flavour of Vietnam. At Caphe by Hai Nam you’ll find everything from delicious coffee to vegan dishes packed with flavour. 

It is a meeting place, nicely decorated and with an atmosphere that invites you to spend hours browsing the menu from top to bottom to end up ordering a coffee or tea from one of the many on offer. 

The quality of their coffees is exceptional, with flavours from all regions and a high quality in the way they are made.

Lui café

Aulich u. 7

Just a few steps from the Parliament and on one of the streets leading off Szabadság tér square is one of the best cafés in Budapest. Recognised by Budapest locals, it has become one of their favourites.

Very active on social media, they have a youthful and jovial atmosphere although the place is cosy and quiet. Always smiling, the staff will offer you the best pastries in town. 

In addition to all the fresh and freshly made products displayed in their windows, don’t forget to order one of their premium coffees. It’s just as pleasant to sit inside as on the terrace. It’s a great café.

Hadik Café 

Bartók Béla út 36

This is one of the most historic cafés in the city. It opened its doors at the beginning of the 20th century and has been a refuge and shelter for great artists and writers over the years. 

A few years ago it was restored in an attempt to rediscover the splendour that made it so important in the world of the arts. Today it hosts talks, exhibitions and meetings of different artists. 

Even if you go there when it is not hosting any event, that bohemian atmosphere has already permeated the ambience and is everywhere. But not only that, in addition to a unique decoration and atmosphere, you will be able to enjoy good coffees, snacks, soups and brunch away from large numbers of tourists.